Chinese and Japanese embroidery are two of the oldest traditional embroidery art forms and are the most prominent among oriental embroidery today.  The art of silk embroidery originated in China and is known to have been practised there for over 3,800 years.  Recent archaeological finds have unearthed embroidery evidence that predates this.  From China, silk embroidery spread to Japan where it developed into a distinct Japanese style, decorating the kimono and obi of the ladies.

In both China and Japan, the finest filament silk from the species Bombyx mori is used and both countries have transformed their silk embroidery into an advanced art form. The use of filament silk, special embroidery techniques and styles set apart Chinese and Japanese embroidery from embroidery created in other parts of the world.  Chinese embroidery, in particular, Chinese ‘Su’ embroidery with its long tradition and special techniques, has produced embroidery art to its finest quality.

Margaret Lee learnt and practised Chinese embroidery from a young age in the traditional Chinese way.  She later studied Traditional Japanese Embroidery, Bead Embroidery – Japanese style; and gained international teacher accreditation from the Japanese Embroidery Centre, Atlanta (the international arm of Kurenai Kai Ltd, Japan). 

Based in Adelaide and with teaching assignments both in Australia and internationally, Margaret enjoys sharing her passion and knowledge in these traditional art forms with her students and guide them in their embroidery journey.